The May, the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze diesel is expected to hit dealerships, and when it does, it’ll have comparable fuel economy figures to the gasoline Cruze Eco model.

According to GM’s marketing director for Chevrolet small cars, Cristi Landy, gas mileage and torque will lead prospective buyers towards the diesel Cruze. The Cruze diesel will be comparable to the Cruze Eco, which is estimated to get 42-mpg highway, but Landy confirms that the Cruze diesel will have better range.

The Cruze Eco’s 42-mpg rating is the best highway mileage of any gas engine in America. With the American automaker having sold more than 1.7 million units since the vehicle launched in 2009, the Cruze has become Chevrolet‘s best selling nameplate in worldwide.

“It’s going to be new. A lot of compact car buyers are not looking for a diesel, but we do expect a success.” Landy said. “The diesel buyers that we know, and what we understand, are very passionate about diesels.”

Image courtesy of Spitzer North Jackson